The Indianapolis Colts now have a clear vision for the future. The 2012 NFL drat saw the team select mostly offensive players and build around their new franchise quarterback. Listed below are the five biggest questions fans have about the team entering the 2012 season.
Can Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis make the transition to outside linebacker?
The team is switching over to a 3-4 defense and the two pass rushers are switching from defensive end to outside linebacker. I think Mathis will have an easier transition than Freeney, but both could thrive in this system. I think a defensive minded coach like Chuck Pagano will put both players in a position to succeed and fans shouldn't be too concerned.
Who steps up at cornerback?
Jerraud Powers is the only legitimate player on the roster at cornerback. Fans have to hope that the new coaching staff can make a starter out of either Kevin Thomas or Chris Rucker. Both are young and still have potential to develop. There are several other young players on the roster who could surprise too. Fans have to hope that someone unknown emerges before the season starts. I think an attacking defense will provide more pressure on opposing quarterbacks and ease the burden on the secondary.
Which players emerge at the running back position?
The team enters the season with several options at running back. Donald Brown has to be considered the starter entering training camp after showing signs of a breakthrough in 2011. With a new coaching staff in place, Delone Carter, Darren Evans, and Deji Karim could all get a chance as well. Rookie draft pick Vick Ballard could also step into a major role after being chosen in the fifth round of the draft. Fans have to hope that the team gets strong production out of whoever emerges at running back.
How will the team fare playing a 3-4 defensive scheme?
This question is a big unknown. While many feel they don't have the personnel to make the switch, I think the defense could surprise people in 2012. Dwight Freeney, Robert Mathis, and Antoine Bethea are all Pro Bowl players and there are talented young players elsewhere on defense. I think the 3-4 could allow for big seasons from both inside linebackers Pat Angerer and Kavell Conner. The answer to this question will have to be proven on the field, but I think fans may be pleasantly surprised this year.
Can Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen become the Colts' version of Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez?
Andrew Luck has to hope they can. It may not happen immediately, but Fleener and Allen have the potential to be major weapons offensively for the Colts. The tight end position has become a major force in the NFL today and Indianapolis now has two young players to grow with their franchise quarterback.
Kyle Rapoza is a Featured Contributor for the Yahoo! Contributor Network and has been a lifelong fan of the Indianapolis Colts. He attended Super Bowl XLIV in Miami and follows the team closely. He also runs the blog www.coltsfansonline.com that covers the team. Follow him on Twitter @kyler11.
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